3-Day Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise from Hanoi — Kayaking, Caves & Floating Village
Spend three days cruising Bai Tu Long Bay from Hanoi—kayak crystal lagoons, explore Thien Canh Son cave and visit Vung Vieng floating village. This active, compact cruise blends geology, local culture and hands-on experiences like a cooking class.
The Experience
Before You Go
Prepare for motion
Bring sea-sickness remedies and sit toward the center of the boat if you’re prone to nausea—conditions can change between calm and choppy.
Dress in layers
Mornings and evenings on the water are cool and damp; a lightweight windbreaker and quick-dry layers keep you comfortable.
Protect the reef
Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid applying lotions before snorkeling or swimming to protect marine life.
Hydrate and pace
Carry a refillable bottle and sip steadily—sun, salt and activity add up over multi-day cruises.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Be Ong Dau lagoon — a sheltered lake framed by sheer karst walls ideal for calm kayaking
- •Tra San beach — a quiet sand spot on a small islet, good for a private lunch and swim
Wildlife
- •White-bellied sea eagles
- •Herons and egrets around floating villages
Conservation Note
Bai Tu Long Bay faces pressures from tourism and development—choose operators who follow waste-management practices, avoid single-use plastics and support local village visits that benefit residents.
The bay’s karst islands are the product of limestone uplift and erosion over millions of years; local communities have long adapted to a life based on fishing and floating settlements.
What to Bring
Light waterproof jacketEssential
Shields you from spray and cool dawn breezes during early-morning transfers and tai chi.
Water shoesEssential
Protect feet when launching kayaks, exploring beaches and boarding tenders.
Dry bag (small)Essential
Keeps phone, layers and camera dry during kayak and tender transfers.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin while minimizing harm to coral and marine organisms.
Common Questions
How do I get from Hanoi to the boat?
Most tours include roundtrip shuttle transfer from central Hanoi hotels; pickup windows are early morning with a mid- to late-afternoon return to Hanoi on day three.
Are kayaks guided or free paddle?
Guides typically lead group kayak sessions and mark safe routes; participants can paddle independently within designated areas under guide supervision.
What level of seasickness should I expect?
Bai Tu Long Bay is generally calmer than the open South China Sea but conditions vary—bring medication if you are sensitive and choose a central cabin to minimize motion.
Is the trip family-friendly?
Yes—this cruise is marketed as suitable for most ages; infants must sit on laps and activities can be adjusted for younger guests.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 days (approx. 72 hours)
Location
Ha Long, Quang Ninh Province
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Reasonable mobility and stamina for short kayak legs, stepping into tenders and brief shore walks; suitable for most active travelers
Ready to Explore Ha Long?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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